Self-understanding is critical to effective teaching and leadership. This article reviews the importance of self-knowledge as a cornerstone in education programs, then describes a process for developing self-understanding and some of the assessment instruments used in these programs. Finally, the paper summarizes the data provided by 281 students who were enrolled in a preservice undergraduate or graduate program providing some insights into the personalities, learning styles, and beliefs of the participants, and indicating several trends. The data revealed that a person in education would likely be a concrete sequential learner, who holds progressive views, has a personality that is energized by being with people, makes decisions on his or her feelings, likes to get information through details, and likes to do things in steps one at a time. The results suggested several areas for further study, including the need to include people with different styles and beliefs in discussions and decisions; further reflection on what educators believe; and investigations of gender and personality and learning style relationships. (Contains 23 references.) (ND)